I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety. – Psalm 4:8
Not long ago, my husband had to be out of town for several days to attend the wedding of our nephew. While I would have liked to go along, the details just didn’t fall into place. With four children recently starting new schools, it didn’t seem right to take them out of school again, so he went and we stayed home. My husband and I have been married for sixteen years and have been separated probably less than ten times; those occasions have taught me that separation is never a cherished experience.
I was feeling quite alone and nervous about him being gone, but I didn’t mention that to him because I didn’t want him to feel bad about going. I did mention my concerns to a friend from church, and she assured me she would pray and that I could call if I needed anything.
The first few nights were a little difficult. I stayed up extra late so I would be very tired and drop off to sleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. I didn’t want to be lying around listening to every little creak and crack that the house might make!
One afternoon, as the kids and I were going out the front door to the store, my four-year-old said he was going to stay home. I quickly told him he could not stay home by himself, that he was too little. He said, “Mom, I just want to stay home with Jesus.” Instantly, I thought about my concerns of staying home without my husband. I was not alone! I had Jesus with me. There was no need to fear.
When we are feeling alone, we can turn to Jesus, Who has promised to be with us. Wherever we find ourselves, and under whatever circumstances, He is always just a prayer away. That night, I slept much better. And now, whenever I start to feel afraid, I look back to that moment and remember it is okay to “stay home with Jesus.”